7-Day Spain Road Trip from Santander to Valladolid, Oviedo, Bilbao, and San Sebastian and surrounding area

Your road trip adventure in Spain begins as soon as you reach Santander and pick up your car. You’ll stay in Santander for 1 night and explore the best things to see and do, sample the local cuisine, and choose from a curated selection of the best hotels and places to stay in the city.

Santander is a beautiful city with plenty to discover. If you arrive before check-in time or prefer to get started on your sightseeing right away, we recommend checking out Plaza Porticada or taking a stroll in the city center. Soak in the lovely atmosphere and sit down for a bit to eat or drink.

Make your way to your chosen hotel. Check-in typically starts between 2 and 4 PM in Santander. Make yourself at home and enjoy some downtime before heading out again.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Santander. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Enjoy a lovely meal at Restaurante la Mayor, a top-rated place to have dinner tonight. Alternatively, if your taste buds call for something different, Santa & Co is another top choice with a popular menu. You could also check for a table at Restaurante Agua Salada. As an establishment that gains consistently high praises from customers, it’s an ideal choice in Santander tonight.

After enjoying a fulfilling meal, continue your evening at Kings Pub, ideal for those looking to unwind with a drink in a comfortable setting. Alternatively, Grog offers a welcoming atmosphere for easing into the nightlife. Similarly, Hygge Cocktail provides an excellent environment for a relaxed and enjoyable evening.

Raise a toast to the start of your 7-day road trip in Spain!

Dive into day 2 of your remarkable road trip in Spain. Today you will explore Santander, and Cueto, where you will have the opportunity to experience all the top things to see and do. At the end of the day, you’ll unwind at one of the finest accommodations in Valladolid. You’ll stay here for 1 night.

Start your sightseeing with a visit to Centro Botin. This art museum is rated an average of 4.3 out of 5 stars from 14,508 visitors. Centro Botin welcomes around 111,096 visitors every year.

Museo Marítimo Del Cantábrico is another popular attraction you could visit today. This maritime museum has a rating of 4.4 out of 5 stars from 6,771 visitors.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Santander, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cueto may take around 13 min. Upon your arrival in Cueto, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you're ready to see some sights, Centro De Arte Faro Cabo Mayor is a great place to start. This museum is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars by 6,037 visitors.

Another popular attraction you can visit today is Parque De Mataleñas. This park has an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars from 2,724 travelers.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to Valladolid, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

As you explore more of Valladolid, you'll discover that its culinary landscape is as diverse as its attractions. Whether you're craving traditional dishes bursting with local flavors or innovative creations that push the boundaries of taste, you're sure to find a dining experience that satisfies your cravings.

Begin your culinary exploration in Valladolid by securing a reservation at Llantén. This renowned restaurant holds a Bib Gourmand award and offers an exceptional menu of traditional cuisine. For another dining delight, visit Alquimia - Laboratorio, celebrated for its delectable creative, and modern menu. This acclaimed 1-star Michelin-recipient consistently leaves guests satisfied, making it a must-visit during your holiday. Looking for a different experience? Discover Trigo, a top local spot known for its tantalizing modern menu. With a 1-star Michelin recognition, it guarantees an exceptional dining adventure.

Continue your lively evening at The Lost Child Cocktail's Bar, a perfect place for winding down or revving up the night, depending on which mood you’re in. Café Bar Alborada is another excellent bar that offers a great selection of drinks to suit any mood. If you prefer to go somewhere else, Monasterio ensures a night out tailored to your taste.

Get a good night's sleep and look forward to another great day on the road in Spain!

On day 3 of your road trip in Spain, you will get a true taste of the freedom a self-drive vacation in Europe entails. Today’s travel plans include stops at the most scenic, wondrous, and interesting places in Leon. In the evening, you’ll end up in Oviedo, where you will stay for 1 night.

After soaking in Valladolid’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Leon. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 39 min. When you arrive in Leon, it's time to take a break from the road.

Seize the day by visiting some of the best attractions in the area, like Parque De La Candamia. This extraordinary park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 3,280 visitors.

Next, make your way to Plaza Del Grano, León. This square is rated an average of 4.6 out of 5 stars in 6,643 reviews.

While in Leon, we also recommend a visit to León Cathedra. This catholic cathedral has been rated an average of 4.7 out of 5 stars in 30,058 reviews.

If you’re keen to explore even more, then consider a visit to Basilica Of San Isidoro. With an average rating of 4.7 out of 5 stars by 8,015 travelers, this collegiate church is a highly recommended stop on your sightseeing around Leon.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Oviedo. Oviedo offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

As you are wrapping up for the day, treat yourself to a satisfying dinner at a nice restaurant in Oviedo. Enjoy a relaxing evening as you savor delicious local cuisine and reflect on the day's adventures.

Treat yourself to a delicious dinner at Restaurante Doña Concha, an excellent option for tonight's dining. Looking for something different? La Oveja Negra offers a tantalizing alternative with its diverse menu. And don’t miss Restaurante La Tagliatella | Oviedo / Uviéu. With its reputation for pleasing customers, it’s a fantastic choice for tonight in Oviedo.

Continue the enjoyment post-dinner at Baam, a cherished local gathering spot renowned for its welcoming atmosphere. Similarly, Mala Saña offers a vibrant space for indulging in well-crafted drinks and engaging conversation. You may also want to check out L'esperteyu Pub - Cervecería. This bar is a favorite among both locals and visitors looking for a delightful evening out filled with laughter and fun.

Say good night to Oviedo and look forward to another great day of your road trip in Spain!

Experience an unparalleled adventure on day 4 of your road trip in Spain. This exciting part of your journey invites you to discover the renowned landmarks in 3 vibrant destinations - Cangas de Onís, Reocín, and Cerrazo. After a day filled with exploration and new experiences, you will retreat to the hotel of your choice in Bilbao. You will spend 1 night here for some well-deserved relaxation.

As you’ve unraveled the marvels of Oviedo, it’s time to gear up for the next part of your road trip adventure. Under favorable conditions, your drive to Cangas de Onís may take around 1 hour 1 min. Upon your arrival in Cangas de Onís, you’ll be greeted with the opportunity to do some sightseeing and exploring.

When you’re ready for some sightseeing, make your way to Roman Bridge In Cangas De Onis. This much-appreciated sightseeing destination is rated 4.7 out of 5 stars in 21,965 reviews.

After soaking in Cangas de Onís’s unique atmosphere, jump into the car with a full heart and drive in the direction of your next destination: Reocín. Expect your car journey to take a minimum of 1 hour 10 min. When you arrive in Reocín, it's time to take a break from the road.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to San Miguel Historic Garden Bridge. This park is rated an average of 4.2 out of 5 stars in 119 reviews.

At the end of the day, you will drive to Bilbao, where you'll have a room waiting for you at the perfect place to stay. Check in and enjoy some downtime.

As dinnertime approaches, it's time to head out for a bite to eat in Bilbao. If you are looking to dine at a popular restaurant in the city, it's often a good idea to reserve a table in advance.

Prepare for an extraordinary culinary adventure in Bilbao by booking a table at Mina, a 1-star Michelin restaurant that boasts an exceptional creative, and seasonal menu. For a different flavor experience, head to Zortziko, renowned for its delectable contemporary dishes. This 1-star Michelin restaurant consistently wows guests, making it a memorable stop during your holiday. Looking for another option? Visit Etxanobe Atelier, a local gem known for its delightful creative cuisine in Bilbao. Nestled in the city's heart, this 1-star Michelin restaurant is a perfect choice for discerning restaurant-goers seeking a new experience.

If you’re not ready to end the night just yet, Stromboli Taberna offers a perfect venue to relax and savor a drink.

Head back to your accommodation in Bilbao and get some rest in preparation for another magical day of your road trip in Spain!

On day 5 of your exciting self-drive vacation in Spain, you’ll soak in the magnificence of 3 destinations, Bilbao, Portugalete, and Sukarrieta. When you’re not sightseeing, take time to relax at your selected hotel in San Sebastian, where you’ll be staying for 1 night.

Begin your sightseeing with a visit to Federiko Moiua Enparantza. This extraordinary sightseeing destination is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,235 visitors.

Next, make your way to Guggenheim Museum. This top attraction is a museum building with an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars by 64,815 visitors. Guggenheim Museum welcomes 530,967 yearly visitors.

We also recommend a visit to Doña Casilda Iturrizar Park. This park is rated 4.5 out of 5 stars by 9,643 travelers.

Fasten your seatbelt and make your way to your next stop. Portugalete, home to many well-known sights in the region, is a lovely destination on today’s itinerary. Keep in mind that your travel time from Bilbao to Portugalete may take around 22 min without traffic disruptions. Upon arrival in Portugalete, we highly recommend checking out some of the top attractions.

Take the opportunity to see Vizcaya Bridge. This attraction has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 28,202 visitors.

When you’re done exploring for the day, you’ll drive to San Sebastian, where you'll have a hotel waiting for you. Check in and spend some time relaxing before you head out to explore the city.

After a day of adventure, treat yourself to an exquisite dinner at one of San Sebastian's best restaurants.

Experience a harmony of flavors at Arzak in San Sebastian by securing a reservation in advance. Known for its 3-star Michelin status, Arzak offers a delightful variety of dishes highlighting its delicious creative, and traditional menu. If you're seeking an alternative culinary experience, be sure to explore Amelia by Paulo Airaudo, a highly recommended restaurant known for its enticing creative cuisine. This popular 2-star Michelin-awarded venue consistently exceeds expectations, ensuring a memorable holiday experience. Ready for another culinary adventure? Indulge your senses at Kokotxa, a highly acclaimed restaurant celebrated for its exceptional modern menu.

Keep the evening going at Gorriti Taberna, a great choice for enjoying the after-dinner hours with a drink.

Savor another day of unforgettable experiences in Spain!

Embark on another extraordinary experience on day 6 of your road trip in Spain. Today, you will make 2 stops and experience some of the highlights of San Sebastian, and Villaescusa. At the end of the day, you will enjoy the comforts of a top-rated hotel in Santander, which will be your home away from home for 1 night.

Your sightseeing of the day begins at Gipuzkoa Plaza, a remarkable park where it’s easy to get lost in exploration. This top attraction is rated an average of 4.5 out of 5 stars in 8,940 reviews.

Next, satisfy your wanderlust at Alderdi Eder Parkea. This park has an average rating of 4.6 out of 5 stars from 13,442 travelers.

Beach Of La Concha is another must-visit attraction. This renowned natural feature offers a memorable experience, well worth a stop on your self-guided sightseeing tour. Rated 4.7 out of 5 stars by 21,054 travelers, it's one of the more popular places to see in the area.

Beyond the above-mentioned sites, you also have the opportunity to visit Peine Del Viento Xv. This well-loved sculpture boasts a 4.7 out of 5-star rating from 11,281 reviews.

Continue your road trip and head to your next destination, Villaescusa. This car ride takes around 2 hours 11 min.

Journey into the unknown at Cabarceno Natural Park, a unique attraction awaiting your visit. This remarkable zoo has an average rating of 4.5 out of 5 stars from 45,839 reviews.

After soaking up all the sights of today's itinerary, you'll be ready to hit the road in the direction of your accommodation in Santander. Santander offers plenty of top-rated hotels and other places to stay on any travel budget. Take some time to relax before you head out to explore.

After a long day of exploring, sit down for a delicious dinner at a top-rated restaurant in Santander. Enjoy a satisfying meal that will recharge you for tonight's adventures.

Discover the culinary delights of Santander by securing a reservation at Cadelo. Esteemed for its a Bib Gourmand award, this restaurant offers a remarkable selection of modern cuisine. For an alternative dining experience, try Umma, renowned for its delicious modern dishes. This esteemed Bib Gourmand-recipient consistently impresses guests, making it a must-visit spot during your holiday. Craving more culinary excitement? Head to Agua Salada, a highly recommended local eatery celebrated for its mouthwatering contemporary, and traditional menu. With its Bib Gourmand recognition, it offers an unforgettable dining adventure.

Extend your evening after a delightful meal by visiting Little Bobby, which offers the perfect atmosphere for a night out.

Celebrate another amazing day of your road trip adventure in Spain!

Day 7 of your road trip in Spain is your departure day. This is your chance to catch a last glimpse of Santander before saying goodbye to this wonderful destination. If you've still got time left, we recommend doing some last-minute shopping or sightseeing.

On your last day in Spain, take time to indulge in shopping at Santander’s popular marketplace. Look for keepsakes or souvenirs to remind you of your trip.

Before you conclude your road trip in Spain, drop by another restaurant for a last chance at a memorable dining experience in Santander.

If you're in the mood to try something new, consider La Barruca de Calderón, another top spot with a mouthwatering menu.

You’ll then say farewell to Santander. Drive to the airport, return your car, and take the opportunity to get some last-minute souvenirs before you board your flight home. We wish you a pleasant journey and hope you leave with many wonderful memories of your road trip in Spain!